Joseph Addison

Birth: 1672-05-01 , Milston

Death: 1719-06-17 , Kensington

Joseph Addison was an English essayist, poet, playwright, and politician. He is best known for co-founding The Spectator magazine with his lifelong friend Richard Steele. Addison's writings were highly influential in the 18th century, shaping literary tastes and contributing to the development of English prose style. His essays offered witty observations on society, politics, and morality, making him a prominent figure in the Augustan age of English literature.

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Poems List

The woman that deliberates is lost. 1

Blesses his stars and thinks it luxury.

My voice is still for war. Gods! can a Roman senate long debate Which of the two to choose, slavery or death?

’Tis not in mortals to command success, But we’ll do more, Sempronius; we’ll deserve it.

Soon as the evening shades prevail, The moon takes up the wondrous tale, And nightly to the listening earth Repeats the story of her birth; While all the stars that round her burn, And all the planets in their turn, Confirm the tidings as they roll, And spread the truth from pole to pole.

The spacious firmament on high, With all the blue ethereal sky, And spangled heavens, a shining frame, Their great Original proclaim.

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Joseph Addison's literary career flourished in the early 18th century. Alongside Richard Steele, he created The Spectator, a daily publication that explored a wide range of topics, from fashion and social commentary to literary criticism and philosophical discussions. Addison's clear, elegant prose and insightful commentary made the magazine immensely popular and influential. He also held various political offices, including serving as a Member of Parliament and as a Secretary of State. His collaboration with Steele is considered a landmark in the history of journalism and English literature.